Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

The master suite continues the rustic modern theme with white walls and trim and natural looking wood floors and doors. The large windows bring the beauty and serenity from the outdoors inside. The master bathroom has two vanities, a large walk in closet, soaking tub and shower with a private water closet. Designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design and built by Chris Achee of Achee Builders. Interior decorating by Sheila Ward.

This immaculate home has increased square footage and value due to the new carriage house and additions. In order to keep in step with everything this prestigious home currently has to offer we have incorporated the carriage house. The carriage house has additional space in back through the double doors and we have matched the exterior of the main house perfectly with cedar shakes and exterior corresponding brick. Be sure to notice the custom carpentry on the ceiling, columns and crown molding as you view the picture of the beautiful breezeway. No detail will be left unnoticed as friends and family walk along the custom concrete creation from the carriage house to the main house. The classic new entryway is so welcoming as you enter the main house though the wooden framed glass doors continuing up the stairs to the main floor.

Single, upwardly mobile attorney who recently became partner at his firm at a very young age. This is his first “big boy house” and after years of living college and dorm mismatched items, the client decided to work with our firm. The space was awkward occupying a top floor of a four story walk up. The floorplan was very efficient; however it lacked any sense of “wow” There was no real foyer or entry. It was very awkward as it relates to the number of stairs. The solution: a very crisp black and while color scheme with accents of masculine blues. Since the foyer lacked architecture, we brought in a very bold and statement mural which resembles an ocean wave, creating movement. The sophisticated palette continues into the master bedroom where it is done in deep shades of warm gray. With a sense of cozy yet dramatic.

This bungalow was sitting on the market, vacant. The owners had it virtually staged but never realized the furniture in the staged photos was too big for the space. Many potential buyers had trouble visualizing their furniture in this small home. We came in and brought all the furniture and accessories and it sold immediately. Sometimes when you see a property for sale online and it is virtually staged, the client might not realize it and expects to see the furniture in the home when they visit. When they don't, they start to question the actual size of the property. We want to create a vibe when you walk in the door. It has to start from the moment you walk in and continue throughout at least the first floor. If you are thinking about listing your home, give us a call. We own all the furniture you see and have our own movers.

This immaculate home has increased square footage and value due to the new carriage house and additions. In order to keep in step with everything this prestigious home currently has to offer we have incorporated the carriage house. The carriage house has additional space in back through the double doors and we have matched the exterior of the main house perfectly with cedar shakes and exterior corresponding brick. Be sure to notice the custom carpentry on the ceiling, columns and crown molding as you view the picture of the beautiful breezeway. No detail will be left unnoticed as friends and family walk along the custom concrete creation from the carriage house to the main house. The classic new entryway is so welcoming as you enter the main house though the wooden framed glass doors continuing up the stairs to the main floor.

View from sceened porch off master bedroom. Photo: Timothy Hursley
Small trendy porch photo in St Louis

This bungalow was sitting on the market, vacant. The owners had it virtually staged but never realized the furniture in the staged photos was too big for the space. Many potential buyers had trouble visualizing their furniture in this small home. We came in and brought all the furniture and accessories and it sold immediately. Sometimes when you see a property for sale online and it is virtually staged, the client might not realize it and expects to see the furniture in the home when they visit. When they don't, they start to question the actual size of the property. We want to create a vibe when you walk in the door. It has to start from the moment you walk in and continue throughout at least the first floor. If you are thinking about listing your home, give us a call. We own all the furniture you see and have our own movers.

In continuation of beauty, quality and craftsmanship, the second floor bath received maple cabinetry with a Praline finish and a built-in tall linen cabinet, Camelot Dream granite vanity top, Kohler Caxton under mount vanity sinks, and Moen Brantford brushed nickel faucets. The tub and soffit were removed, and a walk-in shower was created.

A master closet remodeled to allow better movement, storage and to match the elegance of the bathroom.
Inspiration for a transitional closet remodel in Dallas

Designed for its challenging site with spectacular, unencumbered south-facing views, Aman 22 nestles comfortably into the slope. A water-feature, fire pit, and courtyard hot tub lure residents outdoors to enjoy the villas’ natural surroundings. The division between outdoors and indoors is blurred by low-profile windows that mark the minimal division along rock walls and floors that seamlessly continue from exterior to interior. A slatted fence-like door contributes to the transparency of the entryway, further integrating built and unbuilt environments. Photo Credit: Douglas Kahn

This immaculate home has increased square footage and value due to the new carriage house and additions. In order to keep in step with everything this prestigious home currently has to offer we have incorporated the carriage house. The carriage house has additional space in back through the double doors and we have matched the exterior of the main house perfectly with cedar shakes and exterior corresponding brick. Be sure to notice the custom carpentry on the ceiling, columns and crown molding as you view the picture of the beautiful breezeway. No detail will be left unnoticed as friends and family walk along the custom concrete creation from the carriage house to the main house. The classic new entryway is so welcoming as you enter the main house though the wooden framed glass doors continuing up the stairs to the main floor.

We got to start with the most spacious master suite, essentially the full second floor of a classic Chicago Bungalow. We gutted the bathroom, swapping the huge dated tub for more storage, upgraded the dual pedestal sinks to a custom double vanity, and gave the double shower a makeover, adding a rain head. The renovations continued into the bedroom, office and window seat space with new flooring, lighting, window treatments, furniture and accessories throughout. Photography Ryan McDonald

The master suite continues the rustic modern theme with white walls and trim and natural looking wood floors and doors. The large windows bring the beauty and serenity from the outdoors inside. The master bathroom has two vanities, a large walk in closet, soaking tub and shower with a private water closet. Designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design and built by Chris Achee of Achee Builders. Interior decorating by Sheila Ward.

A compact shower detailed with herringbone tile and brushed brass fixtures. The light-toned ceramic tile adds texture and movement, complemented by a built-in niche with a matching sill. Subtle contrast comes from the patterned wallpaper just outside the enclosure, tying craftsmanship and continuity into a clean, cohesive design.

The master suite continues the rustic modern theme with white walls and trim and natural looking wood floors and doors. The large windows bring the beauty and serenity from the outdoors inside. The master bathroom has two vanities, a large walk in closet, soaking tub and shower with a private water closet. Designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design and built by Chris Achee of Achee Builders. Interior decorating by Sheila Ward.

We got to start with the most spacious master suite, essentially the full second floor of a classic Chicago Bungalow. We gutted the bathroom, swapping the huge dated tub for more storage, upgraded the dual pedestal sinks to a custom double vanity, and gave the double shower a makeover, adding a rain head. The renovations continued into the bedroom, office and window seat space with new flooring, lighting, window treatments, furniture and accessories throughout. Photography Ryan McDonald

Our clients for this remodel of a 100 year old home in San Francisco’s Liberty Hill neighborhood recently moved to San Francisco. The house they purchased was very stately and had great bones, but lacked a true master suite and had recently been remodeled in a slightly generic modern style. We helped them with projects throughout the house. Our biggest project was creating a true master suite out of two bedrooms and an existing bathroom. We created an open concept bathroom with custom gray lacquer wardrobes and shoe storage units with a dramatic slot skylight overhead. Access to the master bedroom is through this room. The clean lines of the bathroom are complimented by a very long wall hung vanity with a CaesarStone counter which flows into the walk-in shower and becomes the curb. A variety of tiles including locally fabricated tile from Heath Ceramics were carefully selected to create a warm and inviting, yet modern, feeling. Oak floors similar to those in the rest of the house were used throughout the master suite for continuity. By using the same tile on the back wall of the bathroom we were able to create a visual unity from the shower through the vanity and the water closet. Our work also included a new fireplace in the living room. Photography by Christopher Stark.

The goal of this project was to create a better flowing space for entertaining and to maximize the beautiful view of their lakefront property. We achieved this goal by removing walls the kitchen and living room, installing panoramic patio doors, and creating one continuous floor that makes it easier to walk from one area of the home to another. The living room bar acts as an entertaining hub for cocktails and beer on tap, with custom TV’s that can be extended for an ideal game day experience. The design for this project was focused on highlighting the newly opened spaces in the home. This was accomplished by painting the exposed wood ceiling, installing several different lighting options, and adding new full-height windows that helped to brighten the space. An urban farmhouse look was achieved with a neutral color palette, brick and stone interior facades, wood flooring, exposed beams, wooden shelving, and black window frames.